Cal Raleigh is staying in Seattle for the long-term. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images)
One of the game’s best all-around catchers is staying with the Seattle Mariners. Cal Raleigh will reportedly sign a six-year, $105 million extension to remain in Seattle, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
Raleigh, 28, is coming off a season in which he hit .220/.312/.436, with 34 home runs. Since taking over as the team’s primary catcher in 2022, Raleigh — affectionately nicknamed “Big Dumper” — has been one of the most prolific power hitters at the position. His 76 home runs since then is the most among catchers. Philadelphia Phillies veteran J.T. Realmuto ranks second on that list with 56 home runs.
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While Raleigh hasn’t posted high batting averages, his immense power has kept him afloat on offense. Raleigh has a career 112 OPS+, meaning his offensive output has been 12 percent better than the league average. His pop is even more impressive at T-Mobile Park, one of the most pitcher-friendly parks in the majors.
Raleigh’s real value, however, is his defense. Raleigh has emerged as one of the best defensive catchers in the game. He’s regarded as a tremendous pitch framer, which led to Raleigh winning a Gold Glove in 2024. Raleigh also won a Platinum Glove — awarded to the best overall fielder in each league — thanks to his performance behind the plate.
The new contract will kick in this season, per Passan. Raleigh, who was set to make $5.6 million in 2025 before the extension, was arbitration-eligible in both 2026 and 2027. As a result of the deal, Raleigh will reportedly receive a $10 million signing bonus. His salary in 2025 will also drop to just $1 million.
Details on Cal Raleigh’s extension with the Seattle Mariners, per sources:$10 million signing bonus2025: $1 million salary2026: $11 million2027: $12 million2028: $23 million2029: $23 million2030: $23 million
2031: $20 million vesting player option (with $2 million buyout)
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) March 25, 2025
Raleigh will now make $11 million and $12 million in 2026 and 2027, respectively. He was set to hit the free-agent market following the 2027 season, but the team essentially bought out the first three years of his free agency. Raleigh will make $23 million in each year between 2028 and 2030. The deal also contains a $20 million vesting player option for the 2031 season. That option will likely trigger based on whether Raleigh can hit certain milestones throughout the duration of his deal.
During his tenure in Seattle, Raleigh emerged as a leader and fan favorite thanks to his handling of the pitching staff and propensity for clutch hits. Tuesday’s extension ensures Raleigh will remain a core member of the franchise as it continues to seek its first-ever World Series title.
